Bet of The Day (4th Feb): Egypt to beat Angola

[Bobby]

• League: African Cup of Nations
• Pick: Egypt
• Odds: 1.83
• Bookmaker: William Hill

Egypt play Angola as favs to proceed to the semi finals based on their bigger experience and quality. Angola did very well here but the lack of experience in big tournaments can be a big disadvantage in games like this. Another issue is the Pharoah's five-time winners coach Hassan Shehata can use all his players for the first time here having a full strength squad for the game at his disposal. News is Hamburg striker Mohamed Zidan expected to start after being rested and only appearing as a substitute in their final group match. The Angolans should welcome back captain Paulo Figueredo, who has missed the last two games through injury. Qualifying for the knockout stage of the competition is already a great success for Angola after they finished second to Tunisia in a tough Group D that also featured South Africa and Senegal, but as I already wrote the lack of experience will make the difference here and I expect the defending champions Egypt to win and progress. Angola have been one of the surprise packages of the tournament but I do not see them surprising the Pharoahs who should have all their players available. News from Goal.com is Angola coach Goncalves will be likely to field a similar lineup to the Senegal match, with the strike partnership of Flavio and Manucho leading the attacking side of the team. Ze Kalanga and Gilberto should bolster up the midfield, as they’re fit as well. Pick: Egypt to nick it. Past encounters: 13 Jan 08 Angola v Egypt 3-3 15 Jan 96 Angola v Egypt 1-2 18 Jan 93 Angola v Egypt 0-0 11 Oct 92 Egypt v Angola 1-0